Springboks centre Lukhanyo Am will further his career in Japan, the Sharks have confirmed, while Jesse Kriel has taken on a new role.
The 31-year-old won the 2019 Rugby World Cup with the Springboks and was an injury replacement four years later as South Africa clinched the William Webb Ellis Cup again.
Lukhanyo Am leaves the Sharks
Am joined the Durban-based outfit from the Southern Kings in 2016 and has gone on to play over 100 times for the men in black and white, winning the Currie Cup and Challenge Cup with the side.
The centre also captained the Sharks several times, first taking on the role in 2020 following the retirement of club legend Tendai ‘The Beast’ Mtawarira.
“A leader. A Springbok. A Shark through and through. With over 100 caps to his name, we say thank you to Lukhanyo Am for his years of dedication, leadership, and excellence in the black and white. You’ve left an indelible mark on this club, both on and off the field. Wishing you every success as you embark on your next chapter in Japan,” A Sharks social media post read, confirming his departure.
Am will join the Japanese Rugby League One side the Mitsubishi Sagamihara Dynaboars, the same club that fellow Springbok Kurt-Lee Arendse represented last season, who are coached by ex-Highlanders and Scarlets coach Glenn Delaney.
He will link up with fellow South Africans Pieter Scholtz, Gideon Koegelenberg, Walt Steenkamp, and Friedle Olivier at the side that also have ex-All Black Jackson Hemopo on their books.
Jesse Kriel lands new leadership role
Meanwhile, fellow Springboks midfielder Jesse Kriel will make history at the Canon Eagles after being named as the new club captain.
Kriel will become the first foreign captain of the Eagles, taking the leadership role in his seventh season with the team that he joined from the Bulls back in 2020.
Earlier this year, the 31-year-old became the 67th Springboks captain when he led South Africa in the Test match against Italy at Loftus Versfeld.
“It’s a huge honour to lead the Yokohama Canon Eagles. This club has become a special part of my journey, and I’m incredibly proud to lead such a talented and hard-working group of players,” Kriel said.
“There are many strong leaders in the group that will form part and help steer the team in a winning direction.
“To our supporters, thank you for your passion and energy every single week. You’re a massive part of what makes this team so special. We feel your support in every moment, and it drives us to give our all on the field.
“I’m excited for what’s ahead this season, and I’ll do everything I can to lead with pride, commitment, and heart. Let’s make it a year to remember.”